The Merchant Of Venice

Act Three, Scene Three:

1. Antonio is now convinced that he knows the reason for Shylock’s insistence on claiming his bond. What is it, use quote from the text to support your answer.

Jailer, look to him. Tell not me of mercy.

This is the fool that lent out money gratis.

Jailer, look to him.

2. Why can the Duke not ‘deny the course of law’ according to Antonio?because that would threaten the security of all foreign merchants in Venice.

3. What does Antonio seem resigned to his fate. What two important realisations is this based on? Use lines 8, 21-24, 26-31 to help you.

4. Do you think Antonio’s feelings towards Bassanio have changed since the beginning, why? Not quite

5.Shylock refuses to consider the idea of Mercy, but demands Justice. Consider the following ideas:

• Is mercy the same as forgiveness? yes
• Is it easier to show mercy or look for revenge?.Revenge is kinda easier because you feel hatred and bad feelings for someone who did something bad/sad to you, as to mercy its kinda hard to forgive someone as you already have hatred thoughts of his/her.
• Is justice the same as fairness?yes
• Is true justice possible in this case? no